Best away days in non-league football: Our top 5 ranked from National League to Step 4

Non-league football remains one of the purest ways to experience the game in England.

Away days at this level are about more than just the 90 minutes.

They are often about community clubs, welcoming volunteers, proper food and drink, and grounds packed with character, proving that you don't need a 60,000-seat stadium to deliver an authentic football experience in England.

From the National League down to Step 4 (Level 8), some clubs consistently go the extra mile to make visiting supporters feel at home.

In fact, the Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) even recognises this with its annual Away Day Experience award, celebrating clubs that deliver the best all-round matchday experience.

Below, FootballGroundGuide ranks five of the best non-league away days in England, combining atmosphere, location, facilities and overall supporter experience.

1. Bickland Park, Falmouth Town AFC

If there is a benchmark for non-league hospitality, Falmouth Town currently set it.

The Cornish club, who operate in the Southern League Division One South (Level 8), were crowned FSA Away Day Experience of the Year in 2025, an award voted for by supporters across the country.

What sets Falmouth apart is the welcome. Travelling fans consistently highlight the friendliness of volunteers, the sense of occasion on matchdays and the effort put into making visitors feel valued.

Despite its rather remote location, often requiring a long and difficult journey, supporters say the experience more than justifies the trip.

There’s also a distinctly Cornish flavour to the day. From local food – including the obligatory pasties – to a relaxed, holiday-like atmosphere, this is one away day that feels like a mini-break.

It’s a reminder that at non-league level, people make the difference, and Falmouth deliver that better than anyone right now.

Having already been to two of Saturday’s three Groundhop grounds, I headed elsewhere to tick off a venue I’d been keen to visit for some time. Falmouth’s Bickland Park is cut into a hillside and this provides some brilliant vantage points to watch a match. 1/3 pic.twitter.com/gTwshFieLu

— Alex Taylor (@ACTaylor96) April 20, 2025

2. The Shay, FC Halifax Town

For those who prefer a more traditional footballing experience, The Shay in Halifax ticks all the boxes.

With a capacity of over 14,000, the home of FC Halifax Town in the National League Premier is one of the larger stadiums in non-league football, giving it a “Football League” feel that many away fans appreciate.

A major plus point is actually off the pitch, however, as the town of Halifax itself enhances the day.

The town centre is within easy reach of the ground, offering a variety of classic pubs and places to eat.

It’s the kind of away trip where everything feels straightforward – good ground, good facilities, and a proper football vibe.

3. Plainmoor, Torquay United

Few away days combine football and location quite like Plainmoor, the home of National League South side Torquay United.

Situated on the English Riviera, this is an away trip that naturally lends itself to a weekend getaway. Beaches, seaside pubs and a relaxed coastal atmosphere all add to the experience, making it one of the most enjoyable destinations in non-league football.

The ground itself is traditional and compact, helping to create a lively atmosphere when the home support gets going.

But it’s the setting that really makes Torquay stand out. It is arguably football with a holiday feel – unless you're heading there on a Tuesday night in December.

For many supporters, it’s not just about the match, it’s about the full trip and in that respect, Torquay delivers one of the best away days anywhere in the pyramid.

4. Memorial Ground, Farnham Town

In Step 3, Farnham Town have quietly built one of the most talked-about away days in the lower tiers.

The Memorial Ground stands out for its town-centre location, something increasingly rare in modern football. This makes it incredibly accessible for visiting fans, with pubs, cafes and amenities all within walking distance.

What really sets Farnham apart, however, is their fan-first approach. The club has gained attention for innovative ticket pricing, quality food and drink options, and a clear effort to prioritise supporter experience.

It’s a refreshing example of how smaller clubs can think creatively to enhance matchdays.

For those exploring the lower reaches of the pyramid, this has become a must-visit.

Sweet chilli fried chicken and rice at Farnham Town (@FarnhamTownFC)

💷 £7.50 pic.twitter.com/rd7dgyI6Np

— Footy Scran (@FootyScran) April 10, 2024

5. The Dripping Pan, Lewes FC

Few grounds in the country are as distinctive as The Dripping Pan, home of Lewes FC.

Set at the foot of the South Downs, it’s widely regarded as one of the most scenic and welcoming venues in non-league football.

The club has built a reputation for putting supporters first, with locally sourced food, craft beer and inclusive matchday experiences all part of the appeal.

What really elevates Lewes as an away day is the overall experience beyond the pitch. The town itself offers plenty of pubs and independent spots, while the nearby coast means you can easily turn the trip into a full weekend away in Brighton or Sussex.

It’s no surprise the ground has been described as one of Britain’s best, as this is non-league done differently, and done right.